Abstract: Introduction: The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of spinal manipulation therapy SMT duration and amplitude on spinal stiffness. Methods: Simulated SMTs were performed at the L6 spinous process in twenty-two felines. SMTs ranging from 25 to 250 ms duration were performed. Groups 1 and 2 received maximal displacements of 1.0mm to 3.0mm. Groups 3 and 4 received maximal loads of 25% to 85% body weight. Local stiffness was quantified by applying an indentation to the vertebra.Results: Repeated SMTs caused minimal changes in stiffness. The interaction effect of duration X displacement in Groups 1 and 2, and the effect of duration in Group 3 were significant. Conclusion: Repeated SMTs cause minimal changes in stiffness thought to be due to a viscoelastic response. Some of the changes following select SMT conditions may be the result of an interaction effect between SMT duration and amplitude. No specific threshold condition was identified as causing a greater stiffness change.

Language: English

DOI: doi:10.7939-R3MH5H

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